Walking can be a relaxing way to exercise, but an encounter with an aggressive dog along the way is a terrifying, potentially dangerous situation. Knowing how to protect yourself from dogs while walking can be vital to your safety.
Steps
Part 1 of 4: Avoid Dogs
Step 1. Avoid walking in places you know, or suspect, that aggressive dogs can frequent
Dogs in packs are particularly dangerous. Avoid groups of three or more dogs
Step 2. Even if an aggressive dog is kept inside a fence, avoid walking close if possible
Keep well away from dog territory. Large dogs can jump over fences if agitated.
Step 3. Be wary of walking on country roads where dogs can roam free
Unwanted dogs are often abandoned in the countryside and left to fend for themselves. These dogs could have been aggressive originally or have become so from being abandoned. Frightened dogs are dangerous.
Step 4. If you are traveling overseas, be aware that dogs roam in packs in some countries
Ask the locals about stray dogs, where packs tend to congregate most, and where you can walk safely.
Part 2 of 4: Behaving Judiciously Around Dogs
Step 1. Resist the temptation to pet a stray dog or even a dog that is out walking with its owner
Ask for permission before approaching the animal. Above all, avoid petting a dog while eating or drinking or approaching a dog with puppies.
Step 2. Control your emotions as much as possible if a dog threatens to attack
Dogs panic and can become even more aggressive.
- Never look at them directly. Keep the dog in your peripheral vision, but don't look him straight in the eye because dogs can perceive this as a threat.
- Don't turn your back on a barking or charging dog.
- Never run to get away from a dog because they will run faster and overtake you easily.
Step 3. Stop jogging or slow down your pace
Running urges the dog's instinct to chase you. Avoid sudden movements.
Step 4. Talk to any harassing dog in a firm, calm voice
Gives commands to crouch or stand still. The yelling, yelling, or yelling can make the animal even more indisposed. Don't smile or speak in a friendly, convincing voice.
- When using voice commands, keep your voice as low as possible. Ladies should try to use a male voice.
- If a dog runs towards you, turn around to face the dog. Do not wave your hands or raise them in the air; instead face the dog and place your hands in front of you, palms out and fingers wide, gesturing "STOP". In a heavy voice, say "STOP!" Then with one hand, point at the dog and say out loud "GO HOME!". This may confuse the dog because he will think that perhaps you have the authority to tell him what to do. Many dogs were shipped "home" using this method.
Part 3 of 4: Bringing Protection
Step 1. Protect yourself by carrying a defensive weapon with you during the walk
- The pepper spray directed at the attacking dog's eyes can stop it. Consider the direction of the wind when you spray, however, as the spray may come back towards you.
- Electronic whistles or other similar devices make sounds that cause extreme discomfort to dogs and may cause them to leave you alone.
- Think about carrying a stun gun designed to protect you from ferocious dogs. A telescopic cane is thought to be preferable because this device extends so you can keep the dog at a distance. Many times the sounds produced by an electronic device are enough to scare the dog without actually hurting him.
Part 4 of 4: Defending If Attacked
Step 1. Protect yourself from serious injury if your dog attacks
- Protect your throat with your arm. Teach children to protect their throats by putting their fists under their chins. Tell him not to wave his hands or jump.
- Gives a strong kick in the nose to a small dog. The nose is a sensitive area and this can deter the dog from biting.
- Take a firm stance. He stands with one leg in front of the other to maintain balance.
- Use something handy as a barrier between you and the attacking dog. A bag, backpack or umbrella can be used as a weapon or as a shield. Sometimes opening and closing the umbrella on the animal's face may discourage it. Look for a car to lock yourself in or a fence to jump over.
- If he has knocked you down or if you have fallen, curl up into a ball and protect your head, neck and abdomen. Cover your face with your hands.
- As difficult as it may be, don't try to get away from a dog that bites you. This will only make him more aggressive. Instead grab the back of your head and press it against your arm. That way he can't close his mouth (to bite deeper).
